Here's something you can do this week that will scratch that gardening itch for you... start gardening in your windowsill....It's a simple and rewarding way to start gardening. Not only is it an easy way to add some green to your home, but watching your plants grow can have a profound impact on your mental health and well-being.
I know this first hand because last week I was at Farm Boy and they had a whole display of so many organic planted herbs like basil, mint, oregano...I mean I couldn’t resist. I bought one, ok maybe two. ;-) Rosemary and Mint. They’ve been my guiding lights all week! Not only do they smell good but I find myself checking in on them and admiring them when I’m at the sink. We hear it all the time but it’s true....the simplest things have the most profound impact.
I picked Rosemary because she’s slow growing from seed - and also because of her powerful medicinal properties too. Did you know that Rosemary has various health benefits such as being antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-tumorigenic, antinociceptive, and neuroprotective. It also has positive clinical effects on mood, learning, memory, pain, anxiety, and sleep. So I mean, why wouldn't everyone be having rosemary in their life right!?!?! And well, mint, its pretty much a weed, so I knew it’d be happy in the kitchen window.
Herbs are not only easy to grow, but they are also incredibly beneficial to our health. Adding a variety of organic herbs to your kitchen this winter in potted form is an excellent choice. Although it may be too early to start sowing seeds for your outdoor garden, that doesn't mean you can't grow your herbs indoors. Why not try starting a few from seed?
Fill a pot with soil, (There are several studies that show even the smell of soil stimulates serotonin production and helps in reducing depression and anxiety) sprinkle in the seeds, and cover them lightly with more soil. Water the soil until it's moist but not soaking, and place the pot in a sunny spot on your windowsill. Choose fast growing things like dill, cilantro, basil or oregano. Of course you can try rosemary but be patient, she may take 20 plus days before she germinates. ;-)
You'll find yourself eagerly checking on them each day, watching as they sprout up and develop new leaves. It's like having a front-row seat to your very own nature documentary.
Just water them, give them some sunshine - south facing window is best, and soon enough, you'll have some new plant babies to call your own. The act of nurturing something and seeing it thrive can be incredibly satisfying. I mean I’ve been admiring that Rosemary from all angles. Until the snow melts, indoor gardening is so good for us.
So if you're looking for some February fun go to Farm Boy and buy yourself some potted herbs or start some from seed - breathe some new life to into your home with a windowsill garden. With just a little bit of effort, you'll be amazed at the impact these plants will have on you.